Starting your tenancy

• Moving-in checklist

  What should I do now that I am moving?

• The State Tenancy Agreement

  The State Tenancy Agreement is a legal contract between the department (also called the lessor) and you, the tenant.

• Entry Condition Report (Form 1a)

  When you move into your home, both you and the department must complete the Entry Condition Report (Form 1a).

• Keys, electricity, telephone

  The department does not keep a spare set of keys to your home. You are given the only copies at sign-up.

• Rights and obligations

  Your responsibilities as a tenant.

• What do I need to tell the department?

  You must advise the department of any of the following changes within 28 days of the change occurring. If you do not advise the department, you may incur a penalty under the Housing Act 2003 or your tenancy agreement.

• Complaints and appeals

  The department is committed to improving its services to clients by resolving complaints and appeals quickly and effectively.

• Obtaining your personal information

  You can request access to departmental documents that contain your personal information through either a request through legislation (Right to Information and/or Information Privacy Acts) or the Administrative Access process. How can I obtain my documents?

• Breaches

  Breaches can be made by the tenant or the department.

• Lawful use of premises

  The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (section 184) requires all tenants to ensure that any activity conducted in their home is legal, does not cause a nuisance, and allows neighbours to enjoy reasonable peace, comfort and privacy.

• Insurance

  Are the contents of your home insured?

• Neighbours

  Tenants are entitled to live in a safe, healthy and peaceful environment. Sometimes this environment can be disrupted by neighbours.

• Living in units or flats

  If you live in a flat or unit, you should be aware of the following.